Adults from £74pp
Your Halong Bay tour begins with a 3 ½ hour drive from the hectic pace of life in Vietnam's capital city, Hanoi, to the tranquil and beautiful Halong Bay. On route you stop off at the Hong Ngoc Humanity Center, a handicraft outlet developed to provide support to communities in the area including people with disabilities.
On arrival in Halong City, board your private boat for a cruise around Halong Bay, famous for its spectacular limestone karsts jutting out of the peaceful green waters of the bay. The views are spectacular as you sail amongst the nearly 2000 islands that fill the bay. You will see first hand why Halong Bay has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site and announced as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature in 2011.
Halong Bay means "Bay of the Descending Dragon" and legend has it that in ancient times, when the Vietnamese were fighting off foreign invaders, the gods sent a family of dragons to assist in the fight. During the battle, the dragons spat out jewels that would later become the islands that now are scattered around the bay. After a welcoming drink you have a chance to enjoy a seafood lunch on board while you cruise among the breathtaking scenery... what a way to spend the day!
Your cruise explores some of the grottos and caves that have formed in many of the area's islands. You also drop in on a fishing village where you will learn more about the culture and customs of the local inhabitants. You can soak up the majestic atmosphere from the top deck taking in the stunning views orrelax below in comfortable surroundings. Return to Hanoi by road in the late afternoon where you have a chance to reflect on this memorable day.
